Walk Japan Launches “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” Tour

Stepping on a foreign landscape, indulging in the local culture, embracing a totally new experience, Walk Japan is offering a unique opportunity to explore the majestic islands of Shikoku. The Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery tour will take travelers on a journey of discovery and cultural exploration, with visits to historical sites, temples, shrines and outdoor activities on this remote set of islands.

1. Journey of Discovery: Explore Shikoku with Walk Japan

Walk Japan invites you to embark on an amazing journey to explore the beautiful Shikoku region of Japan.

The Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful and spiritual experiences in Japan, so join us to traverse the long pilgrim routes. From mountains to mysterious old temples, the routes offer plenty of hidden wonders. There is something for everyone from culture enthusiasts, to outdoor adventurers. In between these sites, we will enjoy traditional artisan workshops and experience local hospitality.

Mountain paths and hidden trails
Movie-like views of crystal-clear coastal waters
Cultural classes experiencing Japanese craftsmanship

We can explore six of Shikoku’s 88 sacred temples, the head temple, pilgrimage markers, popular festivals, and quaint villages. Our knowledgeable local guides will share stories of the region’s rich history and culture, from old myths to modern-day traditions. While in town, we can even partake in a locally run ‘temple stay,’ a unique, hands-on experience with monks.

You will be surrounded by nature, enjoy delicious local cuisines, and discover the peace and beauty within yourself. With Walk Japan, experience a journey of spiritual discovery and lasting memories in Shikoku.

2. Discover Shikoku’s Coast to Coast — Visit Kochi & Ehime

Travelers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to explore the coast to coast of Shikoku, the fourth and smallest island in Japan. A trip connecting Kochi and Ehime prefectures allows you to experience both the serene beauty of the country’s wilderness and peaceful seaside towns, making it one of the most rewarding journeys available.

Visit Kochi, framed by the captivating greenery of the Ryōma Mountains. This prefecture is an absolute paradise for outdoors lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering countless activities from hiking, exploring wildlife, and observing iconic plants. For a bit of coastal relaxation, Utazu Town is the ideal destination. Here, many visitors come to appreciate views of the calming Seto Inland Sea.

Head towards Ehime to continue your journey — it’s renowned as one of Shikoku’s most accessible havens. Are you a beachgoer? Matsuyama City is home to a beautiful stretch of white sand where visitors can sunbathe and soak up the sun’s rays. Other attractions not to miss include Dogo Onsen, Ishite-ji Temple, and Uguisu-jō Park.

Kochi: Ryōma Mountains, Utazu Town, Seto Inland Sea
Ehime: Matsuyama City, Dogo Onsen, Ishite-ji Temple, Uguisu-jō Park

3. Wander the Trails of Traditional Japan — Enjoy Natural Splendors

Japan is a country of great beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is to walk amidst its traditional trails. These ancient pathways wind through forests and hills, leading to stunningly picturesque views and serene natural settings.

Kumano Kodo: This highly recommended pilgrimage route connects three grand Shinto shrines in Mie and Wakayama prefectures. Traversing the route through the mountainous countryside is a memorable experience.
Tokaido Pilgrimage Route: This is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes in Japan, meandering from Kyoto to Tokyo via Shizuoka. Rich with historical sites and temples, the route offers a unique insight into the cultural roots of Japan.

Exploring these traditional trails is an enjoyable way to immerse yourself in the magnificent natural scenery of Japan. From sprawling cherry tree canopies to breathtaking mountain tops, it’s sure to be a memorable journey.

4. Step into Culture, History & Tradition — Experience “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” Tour

This captivating tour will whisk you away to experience the stunning culture, captivating history, and traditional lifestyles of two of the four Japanese Shikoku prefectures – Kochi and Ehime.

On this jaunt you will explore thrilling descent to the Oboke Gorges’ sheer limestone cliffs, journey up the steep mystical mountains of Ishizuchi, take a relaxed stroll around a 200 year old beautiful castle in Kochi, discover the colourful Edo-era Shikoku pilgrimage temples, and venture through the goods-filled markets of Kotohira-gu Shrine. Plus the trip will include a stop at one of the area’s oldest traditional architecture monument.

Witness the thrill of Oboke Gorge – Experience the the jagged 200-meter-high limestone cliffs in the path of Kuroshio, as you descend to the impressive Oboke Gorge.
Climb one of Japan’s Seven Mystic Mountains – Visit the first peak point in Shikoku, the mystical Ishizuchi, at an altitude of 1,982 meters.
Tour beautiful Kochi Castle – Relax while appreciating the refined landscape of the red-brick, 200 year old Kochi Castle, which stands as a landmark of graceful style.
Discover colourful Edo-era Shikoku temples – Step back in time and explore the stunning coloured structures of the 88-temples route of the Edo period Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Shop in lively Kotohira-gu Shrine markets – Wander through the stalls of the lively goods-filled Kotohira-gu Shrine.
Visit the Iya-no-Kazura bridge – View one of the oldest surviving traditional architecture monuments at the Iya-no-Kazura or ‘vine bridge’, that has been clinging to the mountain’s cliffside for centuries.

Walk Japan’s “Shikoku: Kochi & Ehime Discovery” tour is perfect for those who seek an authentic cultural experience. With its multiple days of deep exploration of two of Japan’s most rural and scenic prefectures, this tour truly captures the essence of the Land of the Rising Sun. If you’re ready to step off the beaten path and freely explore the hidden gems of Japan, this is the perfect place for you. Set off on a journey to uncover the secrets of Kochi and Ehime, and you won’t be disappointed.